BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is pushing for a stronger operational alliance with the Nigerian Air Force as part of renewed efforts to tighten security across the nation’s airports and critical aviation corridors.
FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, made the appeal on Tuesday when she received the Commander of the National Air Defence Corps, Air Vice Marshal Japhet Ekwuribe, during a courtesy visit focused on strengthening institutional synergy and operational coordination.
Kuku said Nigeria’s aviation environment is becoming increasingly complex, requiring more than routine security measures.
She stressed that sustained inter-agency cooperation is now central to safeguarding airport infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted flight operations.
According to her, FAAN is prioritising closer collaboration with the Air Force in areas such as coordinated airside patrols, real-time communication on sensitive flight activities, and enhanced perimeter surveillance to deter unauthorised access and security breaches.
She also flagged the persistent challenge of encroachment on airport lands, warning that unchecked developments around airport boundaries pose long-term risks to safety, security, and future expansion plans.
Kuku added that FAAN remains committed to building stronger security partnerships across all aviation stakeholders, noting that “shared intelligence and coordinated action are critical to securing our airports in today’s security landscape.”
In his response, Air Vice Marshal Ekwuribe commended FAAN’s leadership for what he described as a proactive and forward-looking approach to aviation safety and security management.
He said the visit was an opportunity to reinforce collaboration between both institutions, adding that stronger coordination would improve surveillance efficiency, response time, and overall operational effectiveness within airport environments.
Ekwuribe reaffirmed the Air Force’s readiness to work more closely with FAAN in addressing emerging threats and strengthening the security framework around Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Both institutions agreed on the need to sustain regular engagement and develop practical joint mechanisms that will enhance airport security operations nationwide.
The engagement reflects a broader push to align aviation and defence capabilities in order to better protect Nigeria’s airports and maintain safer skies for passengers and operators alike.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
